STATE HOUSE – Rep. Gregg Amore (D-Dist. 65, East Providence) has reintroduced legislation (2019-H 5139) that would allow 17 year olds to vote in primary elections as long as the individual will be 18 years old by the date of the general or special election.

“I have reintroduced this legislation due to my role as an educator, as I have witnessed first-hand the level of engagement and knowledge that politically active high school students can possess. These students deserve to have their voices heard in the electoral process because it is their futures that will be affected by these elections. This legislation is especially pertinent today with the country witnessing so many young people actively involving themselves in the political discussion regarding school safety and other important matters facing our state and country. I firmly believe that if a young adult will turn 18 years old by the time of a general election, they should be able to vote in the primary election, thereby participating in the entire election cycle,” said Representative Amore.

Testimony on the bill will be heard this week by the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday at the RISE of the House (approximately 5 p.m.) in Room 205 in the State House.